LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari warned the opposition on Wednesday of retaliation in response to any rude behavior or misconduct during the Punjab Assembly session.
Speaking for the first time in five years on the budget, Bukhari emphasized that respectful discourse was essential, but any disrespect would be met with an equally stern response.
Bukhari took the opportunity to highlight several key developments in Punjab, mentioning that more than Rs 800 billion have been allocated for education in the province. She also shared that the “Clinic on Wheels” initiative had benefited 9.2 million people within just one year, and that several new hospitals had been established under the current administration.
Speaking about Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, Bukhari praised her for eliminating “mafia groups” and ensuring that government benefits reached everyone. She noted that even the streets of opposition supporters were being developed under her inclusive approach. Furthermore, scholarships were being awarded to deserving students without regard to political affiliation.
Bukhari criticized opposition leader Syed Ali Haider Gilani for his stance on South Punjab’s development. She pointed out that the political party which had previously promised to make South Punjab a province within 100 days was now questioning the current government’s progress.
Bukhari listed various initiatives such as the Kachi Canal in Taunsa, shrimp farming in Muzaffargarh, and the establishment of the first medical college in Layyah as examples of tangible progress in South Punjab. Additionally, the University of Health Sciences had been established, and weekly meetings were being held to address inflation.
The minister further stated that the Chief Minister was personally overseeing efforts to reduce the prices of essential commodities like potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. Concluding her speech, Bukhari issued a warning to the opposition, stressing that verbal abuse and foul language would not be tolerated. If the opposition chose to engage in misconduct, they would receive a similar response.
